Bayberry at Emerald Court

This review has been more difficult to write than originally anticipated. We all dance around the changes we see in our parents as they age. The day that we’re faced with the fact that living at home is no longer a safe or viable for them, we enter a vortex. Options are everywhere and we experienced many of them, and made plenty of mistakes early, on this winding path which began elsewhere in 2022. We know now that the road to success is rarely a straight line. By the time we found Bayberry, we had moved 3 times for a multitude of reasons, namely facilities closing, changes in level of care and independence status, and newer, disreputable acquisitions within communities. All ultimately led to disruption in care and relationships forged. My Sister and I felt like Senior Living Experts after 2 years. But by that time we didn’t need to be, because we knew as soon as we walked in, that Bayberry knew how to do this thing. Properly. That it was the right place; we both felt it immediately, and were trying hard not to want it too much in case it didn’t work out. It worked out. Our mother began living at Avita at Bayberry in the Fall of 2024. She entered with a diagnosis of Dementia. Our fiercely independent, yet very introverted, chronically-cranky mother who had a black belt in stubbornness, and always leery of new people, suddenly had a new roommate, and a floor full of people her age she would soon come to befriend and care deeply for. We were there for a little over a year; in that time, we were introduced to a version of our mother we had never known before with the help of a solid, loving, core team of overseers who over time, became more like family to us than employees of a corporation. That’s the thing about Avita; they do a phenomenal job of selecting, installing, and organizing employees for specific roles, ensuring optimal performance and experience for their residents and their families. And when the right people are in position, they become the soul of the place; the steady drum of its’ heartbeat. AVITA’s Jackie, Jose’ and Evelyn, as well as Kaylin, Bayberry’s Director of Programming, and so, so many others, had given our mother a sense of comfort, belonging, security, and unconditional affection that changed who she was, and ultimately who we were. This team is compassionate and generous with their attention and kindness, and together, have the kind of synergy any large organization would have a fever-dream over. The day we moved to hospice, I mentioned to Hollis, Bayberry’s Executive Director, that finally finding the type of place that had given us the kind of deep exhale we were able to experience with Avita, especially after our Mother had lost the ability to use her phone and be in immediate contact with us if needed, was invaluable. We NEVER worried. Everything was under control. We’re forever grateful and deeply indebted to everyone at Bayberry in Tewksbury who were in the car for this ride with us. ❤️

I have been incredibly grateful for the care my mom receives at Bayberry. She moved into the assisted living community a little over a year ago and has recently moved into an Avita memory care unit. The staff consistently goes above and beyond to make sure my mom feels seen, respected, and valued. From honoring her daily routines to encouraging outings and activities she enjoys, they tailor their care in a way that feels personal and thoughtful. A very special shout-out to Avita Director Kaylyn, who does an outstanding job keeping our family informed. She regularly shares updates and photos, which truly mean the world to us and give us such peace of mind. Her communication, compassion, and dedication make an incredible difference. I couldn’t be more thankful for the compassionate, individualized care they provide and would highly recommend this community to anyone looking for a place where loved ones are treated like individuals, not just residents.

The leadership team and the staff at Bayberry have been outstanding - patient, caring, and helpful. When we first approached them about the community, they helped us not only with their own organization, but with the assisted living process as a whole. They made the transition for Mom and for our family as easy as could be. Finally, and importantly, they have provided excellent care for Mom. The staff are friendly, attentive and capable.

I have been the hairstylist at Bayberry since 2008. I have met and loved many residents who have sat in my chair. Although I’m not a family member with experience to write about, I am a witness to the hardwork, dedication , and love that the staff gives to the residents everyday. When your loved ones sit in my chair they open up about past and present stories of family and friends but they also tell me about the friendships and fun they have at Bayberry. Imagine In a week they could play bingo, horse races, card games, movie nights ,drumming, karaoke, watch musical performers, dance with ballroom dancers , painting classes in which many art pieces are displayed in the salon , exercise classes , trivia circles , bayberry chorus , talent shows , holiday events … so much to get talked about but hard to get in one post. But my very favorite event is hair day 😍. It isn’t easy finding that place to make your loved ones feel at home , safe and entertained. , but I believe Bayberry is a place you will love. From the very moment you walk through the door you see the smiles from front desk ladies , to the smell of the scones hot out of the oven from our kitchen crew, and the homey feel of the clean environment from the maintenance and house keeping crew. Top it all off with the love and care the nursing team and resident aides give on a daily basis makes this place home. Come visit and see for yourself and come say hi when you do.

Bayberry has been the best place for my mom. The center isn't really that big, but that's what makes it perfect for my mom who has early Dementia/Alsheimer's. The staff there are the best. So kind and helpful in many ways. So, I feel like she gets a lot of personal attention. Her apartment is a perfect size, and we were able to decorate it like she wanted, so it feels homey to her. The meals are prepared fresh every day, and my mom hasn't complained about the food at all. They schedule different activities throughout the day, and sometimes special things like live music and live performers and special meals to celebrate a holiday. I would highly recommend Bayberry for your loved one if your looking for a place for them to be in.